Princess Margaret student Meghan McCafferty got excited when learning that kids 18 and under can go watch a Penticton Vees game for free.
“That would be fun, would be awesome,” said McCafferty, who has never been to a Vees game.
McCafferty and other kids can thank Peters Bros. Construction as they have partnered with the Vees for the next four years to cover the cost of single game tickets.
“This partnership will create a positive influence on the youth of Penticton and will help create an exciting environment each and every night,” said Fred Harbinson, Vees head coach and president.
Admission for children age 12 and under is free as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. Though there is no cost for students and children, they are still required to pick up a game ticket at the Valley First Box Office (at the South Okanagan Events Centre).
Michael Poon also feels it’s a good partnership. Poon used to watch the Vees but stopped because he was busy with sports.
“I’m actually running low on cash,” said Poon, adding that this would encourage him to go. “One of my favourite players was Beau Bennett back in the day and right now he is in the NHL.”
Joey Cyr, community family services supervisor for the Salvation Army Food Bank, said he’s happy to see the generosity in the community. This will also bring a positive impact to families in need.
“There’s not a whole lot of free options,” said Cyr, adding that they help 100 families a month at the food bank. “It’s nice to have this.”
Harbinson said in his 20 years working in different cities he has never come across a group as generous as Peters Bros.
“This is a massive partnership. We are going to be able to open the doors to kids and it’s not going to cost them a dime.”
Harbinson himself knows what it will be like for kids to go. Growing up in Calgary, it meant a lot to him to go to games.
Harbinson said the youth in the SOEC will energize his team.
“The best games in this building have always been when there are a lot of kids in the building,” said Harbinson. “They bring that energy and excitement. That’s going to be great to see for years to come.”
Peters Bros. Construction is a privately owned and operated paving contractor in the Okanagan with its head office in Penticton. Peters Bros. Construction has been am active community partner in Penticton, as they’re a major sponsor of the Peach Festival amongst other community initiatives.
“Our main goal is to work with the Vees in providing a positive entertainment option in a safe environment for our youth,” said Peters Bros. Construction spokesperson, Joe Cuzzocrea. “We’re a big supporter of not only the team but the SOEC as well, so we’re very excited about this new partnership.”
Single game tickets will be available to the public as of Thursday at 10 a.m. leading up to the Vees home opener Oct. 3 against Salmon Arm. Prices remain unchanged from last season as adults are $13 and seniors are $11. To alleviate pressure and long line-ups, the Vees will be implementing a new game day walk-up ticket price. Adult and senior tickets will be raised by $1, making adult tickets $14 and senior tickets $12 each. Single game tickets cam be bought throughout the week leading up to games at the Valley First Box Office for no additional charge.
This new policy doesn’t affect season ticket holders.